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We never thought we were writing for posterity, because at…

“We never thought we were writing for posterity, because at the time everyone assumed that all the great standards had already been written by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Rodgers and Hammerstein... The songs we were writing were supposed to be temporary things, of the period, like comic books.” quote by Mike Stoller
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“We never thought we were writing for posterity, because at the time everyone assumed that all the great standards had already been written by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Rodgers and Hammerstein... The songs we were writing were supposed to be temporary things, of the period, like comic books.”

Mike Stoller

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Songwriters once saw their work as temporary, not lasting art.

In simple terms: Songs were thought to be fleeting.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the lasting cultural impact of art.

Themes

artistry legacy cultural standards temporary vs. timeless

Mood

nostalgic thoughtful

Type

historical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • film scoring
  • theatrical productions
  • modern songwriting

Key Concepts

music history creative ambition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a work timeless?
  • How can creators aim beyond trends?
A Different Perspective

Industry pressure may still favor short‑term trends.

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